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From The Mayor's Desk By: Mayor Melissa Brazell Emmons
Note: From The Mayor’s Desk is submitted by Mayor Melissa Emmons and is not the official minutes of the Elgin Town Council. Trey Webb Agent 10201 Two Notch Rd Columbia, SC 29229-4387 Bus: 803-788-9188 www.treywebbinsurance.com Availability and amount of discounts and savings vary by state.
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Letter Submissions
The Elgin News
wants to hear from you It is the policy of The Elgin News to encourage reader participation on its editorial page. Diverse and varied opinions are welcomed. Because of space limitations, we must limit all contributors to one letter per person per month. Letters of 200 words or less will be published unless they contain language or content that the editors feel is inappropriate. Examples of content that will cause letters to be rejected include the following: • Disrespectful comments regarding a group's or individual's ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender, religion, culture, or race. • Poor taste. • Endorsements for or complaints about • individually named commercial products or services. • Personal attacks. The Elgin News will not knowingly publish factually incorrect information. Only letters written exclusively to the newspaper will be published. Letters to a third party or those written to more than one newspaper are not accepted. Letters written in response to other letter writers should address the issue at hand and, rather than mentioning the writer by name, should refer to the headline and date the letter was published. Discourse should be civil and people should be referred to in a respectful manner. Letters referring to news stories should also mention the headline and date of publication. All letters must be signed and include the writer's street address or route address telephone number, which will be used for verification purposes only. We welcome your input. You may write to us by e-mail at elginnews@gmail.com or by regular mail at:
Community support, local businesses, police department activities and Freedom of Information Act training were among the topics discussed during the Elgin Town Council’s September 1 meeting. Mayor Melissa Emmons presided over the meeting, which began at 6:01 p.m. Council members in attendance included Mayor Pro Tem Brad Hanley and Councilwomen Brandy Bradley, Cristy Bradley and Dana Sloan. Also attending were Police Chief Alan Anders, Lt. Chris DeLong, Town Clerk Jamie Parker and Town Attorney
John Wells. The meeting opened with an invocation by Councilwoman Brandy Bradley, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by Hanley. Council unanimously approved the minutes from the August 4 meeting and adopted the evening’s agenda. Business Licenses Reviewed The council reviewed several business license applications submitted during August. Mavis Southeast LLC, doing business as Mavis Tire, submitted an in-town business license application. Temporary business license applications were also submitted by AA Graphics LLC, Signs by Colt LLC, Division 22 Contracting LLC and King of Fire. The council also reviewed a November charity event request from the Kershaw County Jeep Club. Approval of the event is pending receipt of the required insurance documentation. A speeding complaint submitted by Thomas Ray was also noted, with the Elgin Police Department handling the matter. Community Center and Police Department Updates Council received the Elgin Community Center’s monthly report for August. Chief Anders expressed appreciation to community members who stepped forward to help with the vigil for Lance Corporal Chris DeLong Jr. The council members also shared condolences with the DeLong and Demyck families. Sloan, who recently attended a court hearing, commended the judges and law enforcement officers for their professionalism and the way they conduct themselves. Cristy Bradley thanked Chief Anders and Sgt. Aaron Threatt for traveling to Columbia to assist Lt. Chris DeLong Sr. Local Accomplishments Recognized The council also recognized several positive developments in the community. Cristy Bradley congratulated Lugoff-Elgin High School on its football victory over Camden High School and shared information about Gather & Grind, a new coffee truck serving the area. Hanley congratulated Judge Reuwer on celebrating 16 years as a judge for the Town of Elgin. FOIA Training Discussed SEE MAYOR, PAGE 3 >>
The Elgin News P.O. Box 152, Elgin, SC 29045
Cate Goff, Publisher (803) 513-5108
The Elgin News builds community and brings people together by informing everyone about local businesses, services, schools organizations, government, activities, events and other information useful for becoming involved. It helps those who live and work in Elgin to get to know each other as people and to become friends. The Elgin News accepts no responsibility for the contents of the advertisements or articles. Advertisements and articles are accepted with the full responsibility of the advertiser for worth and accuracy. Readers who wish to comment or have concerns regarding advertisements contained herein are urged to phone the Elgin News at (803) 513-5108. The Elgin News will discontinue accepting advertising from firms of alleged dubious reputation. Rates are net - discount agreements must be reflected on the publication order. Invoices due on receipt. Tearsheets and proofs available upon request. Advertising setup, changes and publication verification are provided at no charge. 15% agency comm. is 30-days firm. Photography charges negotiable. By-line articles are the property of the contributor and may not be reproduced without permission.
The Elgin News, PO Box 152, Elgin, SC 29045 · (803) 513-5108 Cate Goff, Publisher · Email: elginnews@gmail.com 2
September 24, 2026
The Perfect Storm At Doby’s Mill
Mrs. Shaw, Chloe’s grandmother and one of DME’s very best volunteers, visited Mrs. Cook and Mr. Novinger’s classes to share her firsthand experience of living in Miami, Florida, during Hurricane Andrew. She told our students about her family’s frightening experience surviving the hurricane, the incredible destruction left behind, and, most importantly, how the families in her small neighborhood rallied around one another to help, support, and care for each other in the aftermath. Her visit connected perfectly with our current ELA unit of study as students learn about extreme weather and the experiences of people who have lived through these powerful events. We can read articles,
EARLY VOTING
study photographs, and watch videos, but there is something especially meaningful about hearing a firsthand account from someone who was actually there. The timing made her visit even sweeter as we celebrate Grandparents Week at DME! We are so thankful to Mrs. Shaw for generously giving her time, sharing her memories, and helping bring our learning to life. Experiences like this remind our students that some of the very best lessons come from the people in our own community. Thank you, Mrs. Shaw, for making today’s learning one our students will remember!
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October 19 - 31
Camden City Arena | Elgin Community Center Open 8:30 am-6:00 pm | Closed Sundays Election Day is Tuesday, November 3, 2026
MAYOR, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2 The council received information regarding the town’s Freedom of Information Act forms and fee schedule. Members discussed scheduling a workshop with Charlie Barrineau of the Municipal Association of South Carolina to provide FOIA training for council members and town employees. Town Attorney John Wells also discussed FOIA-related matters with the council. Mayor Emmons joined council members in expressing condolences to the families affected by recent events. The meeting was adjourned at 6:38 p.m. following a unanimous vote. The next regular meeting of the Elgin Town Council is scheduled for Tuesday, October 6, at 6 p.m. September 24, 2026
20 TOWNLEE LANE SUITE A, LUGOFF LAWCONNELL.COM 3
Celebrating Constitution Day, September 17th By: Liz Simon, Staff Writer
Throughout 2026, the 250th Committee has organized celebrations and reenactments commemorating the signing of the Declaration of Independence. But how did you mark another historic occasion—September 17th? Did you ring a bell? At 4 pm, bells rang across the nation, including at Bethesda Presbyterian Church in Camden to celebrate Constitution Day. Many Kershaw County schools celebrated Constitution Day with Spirit Week: Monday was Camo Day; Tuesday was Stars and Stripes Day; Wednesday was Land of Opportunity Day; Thursday was Red, White, and Blue Day; and Friday was We the People Day. Did you know that South Carolina saw more Revolutionary War battles than any state? The war ended on September 3, 1783, when the United States and Great Britain signed the peace treaty recognizing the independence of the 13 colonies, after more than seven years of conflict. What do you know about what happened after the Revolutionary War ended five years later, on September 17, 1787, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania? At the time, Philadelphia was the nation’s largest city, with about 40,000 residents, while the United States had about 4 million people; today, it has more than 343 million. The Articles of Confederation of 1776 formed a weak national government with limited authority to tax, regulate business, or enforce laws. The Constitution replaced it with a stronger system that protected individual rights through checks and balances. By unifying the states and strengthening stability, defense, and self-government, it laid the foundation for our United States of America. Constitution Day is observed every September 17, marking the anniversary of the Constitution’s signing. Written to create “a more perfect union,” the Constitution established the framework for the federal government. James Madison, the Father of the Constitution, was the first delegate to arrive in Philadelphia in early May 1787, bringing a draft for
the new government to the Constitutional Convention. He was the only delegate to attend every meeting, carefully recording the debates and discussions. The Constitution took 100 days to write, and George Washington and James Madison, both delegates from Virginia, were the only future presidents to sign it. Rhode Island decided not to send any representatives; however, forty-two delegates took part in the convention, but only 39 signed the Constitution. Among them were four men from South Carolina: Pierce Butler, Charles Pinckney, Charles Cotesworth Pinckney, and John Rutledge. One of the most memorable moments came from 81-year-old Benjamin Franklin. Though his mind remained sharp, gout and a kidney stone had left him barely able to walk. He had to be helped as he signed the Constitution, and tears reportedly streamed from his eyes. Each day, Franklin arrived at the convention in a chair carried by four prisoners from a nearby jail—an unforgettable image from one of the most important gatherings in American history. The delegates met from 10:00 am to 3 pm, six days a week. Although their original goal was to revise the Articles of Confederation, it soon became clear that an entirely new constitution was needed to govern our newly formed country. To keep their debates secret, delegates stationed guards at the doors of the Pennsylvania State House. The Constitution was ratified in 1788 after nine of the 13 states approved it. Its opening words, “We the People,” begin the preamble, followed by seven articles and 27 amendments. The first 10 amendments, added in 1791, are the Bill of Rights, protecting individual rights. Although “democracy” does not appear in the Constitution, “Pennsylvania” was one of its most frequently misspelled words. At about 4,400 words, the Constitution is the oldest and shortest written national constitution still in use. At Congress’s request, President George Washington proclaimed November 26, 1789, the first National Thanksgiving Day to give thanks for the new Constitution. As we reflect on more than 250 years of national history, we honor those who sacrificed before us and for us. The American Dream—the belief that hard work and determination lead to success—endures, guided by the Declaration’s promise of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness and by the Constitution, which defines our government and protects our rights. We must never take our rights to live “One nation under God” for granted.
Community Artisan and Farmers Market
The Community Artisan and Farmers Market is inviting shoppers to buy local at its two weekly markets in Columbia, where South Carolina vendors and artisans sell produce, eggs, snacks, arts and crafts, holiday items and more. The market is open from 2 to 6 p.m. Tuesdays at the North Springs Recreation Center, 1320 Clemson Road, and from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursdays at the Richland County Wellness Center, 306 Flora Drive. All vendors are from South Carolina, and money from sales stays in the community. The market accepts senior vouchers and WIC benefits.
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Several special events are planned for the season. Tent or Treat, a Halloween event, will be held Tuesday, Oct. 27, with candy for children, and again Thursday, Oct. 29, in a larger version with the Richland County Wellness Center featuring music, contests and activities. A Fall Festival is set for 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 7, and a Holiday Market will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 19. Vendors are being sought for both events. For more information or to apply as a vendor, email manager@ communityafm.org or call 803-807-3238.
September 24, 2026
September 24, 2026
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LEHS JROTC Visits Lugoff Elementary School
Lugoff-Elgin High School JROTC cadets recently visited Lugoff Elementary School to teach students about the American and South Carolina State flags. The cadets shared important facts about each flag while explaining the traditions, customs, and proper courtesies associated with them. Students also learned how to respectfully carry, raise, lower, and fold the American flag. The visit provided a meaningful, hands-on lesson in patriotism, respect, and civic responsibility.
Above left, Cadet Command Sergeant Major Roger Burns teaches elementary students facts about the South Carolina State Flag, along with how to hold it. Above right, Caption Cadet Sergeant Brendan Randall and Cadet Captain Kenley Edwards teach elementary students from Lugoff Elementary about the American Flag as well as traditions and courtesy of handling the flag.
Calveria Living Named KCCC’s Sept. Award Winner
The Kershaw County Clean Commission has named Calveria Living in Camden its September 2026 Business Beautification Award winner, recognizing the community for its attractive property, well-maintained landscaping, and commitment to maintaining clean and litter-free grounds. While the award recognizes the appearance and upkeep of the property, Calveria Living’s residents are an important part of what makes the grounds special. Residents take an active role in caring for plants, tending garden areas, and helping maintain the welcoming outdoor spaces they call home. The property features thoughtfully maintained landscaping, colorful plants, inviting outdoor seating areas, and gathering spaces that provide residents with opportunities to enjoy the grounds and contribute to their care. “Beautification is about more than having an attractive property. It reflects the pride people take in the places where they live, work, and gather,” representatives of the Kershaw County Clean Commission said. “What stood out at Calveria Living was seeing that sense of pride extend to the residents themselves.” Accepting the Beautification Award were Tarry Romandine, Director; Brad Richardson, Sales Director; and Carey Speaks, resident gardener. Speaks is also the mother of Kershaw County Clean Commission member Ginger Long. The award was presented by Christine Denis and members of the Kershaw County Clean Commission, who joined Calveria Living staff and residents to celebrate the recognition. Through its Business Beautification Award program, the Kershaw County Clean Commission recognizes local businesses and organizations that demonstrate a commitment to maintaining attractive, clean, 6
and litter-free properties. The program also highlights the role local organizations can play in strengthening community pride and enhancing the appearance of Kershaw County. Calveria Living’s recognition provides an example of how beautification can become a shared effort. By involving residents in caring for their surroundings, the community has created outdoor spaces that are not only attractive but also reflect a sense of ownership and pride. The Kershaw County Clean Commission congratulates Calveria Living, its staff, and its residents on being named the September Beautification Award winner and thanks them for helping keep Kershaw County Clean, Green & Beautiful. September 24, 2026
Elgin Police Department Incident Reports
Shoplifting: Officer responded to the Food Lion, 2465 Main Street, Elgin, SC on the report of a shoplifting. Officer made contact with the on-duty Manager who stated that a customer had made a selection of products, went to the register and scanned each item, and made a partial payment with a debit card. The total amount of groceries was $49.27, but only $38.34 was paid with the debit card. Customer had "swiped" a Food Lion loyalty card registered to the suspect. Victim believes that this incident may have been a mistake and wishes the suspect to return and pay the difference, but no further action. BWC of security video made and downloaded. Shoplifting: On 09-16-2026 at approximately 1930, Officer responded to 2465 Main Street (Food Lion) in the Town of Elgin within the boundaries of Kershaw County S.C., in reference to a shoplifting. Upon arrival, Officer made contact with a Store Manager who witnessed who they identified as Subject shoplift by not scanning an item. The store manager was able to show me a video from the stores security camera that was above the self checkout (Register 051). In the video it showed a female scanning items that were inside of her shopping cart. The female picked up two packs of meat, only scanning one before she placed the items into a bag. After Subject was finished scanning all other items, she exits the store depriving Food Lion of full retail value of the meat. The stolen pack of meat was a “Corn Beef Brisket” with an average weight of three pounds at $7.99 per pound. The total value deprived from the business is $23.97. The manager was able to identify the female from previous incidents and by the “Loyalty Customer Number 46703382340”. The manager wants to pursue criminal charges and to place Subject on a notice of Trespass. Kershaw County Central Dispatch ran a criminal history on Subject to confirm she only had one larceny conviction in 2024. Officer attempted to contact Subject by calling the number that was in our system, no contact was made. Officer’s body worn camera was activated during the call for service. Suspicious Person: Reporting officer was dispatched to the location on Abbey Road, which is within the Town limits of Elgin, in reference to the compliant wishing to make a report regarding a suspicious individual seen walking about the Pine Forest neighborhood. Upon arrival, Officer made contact with the Complainant who stated that she had Ring doorbell footage of a suspicious person ringing her doorbell. Complainant stated that at approximately 0800 hour, an unknown to her black male walked onto her porch and rang her doorbell twice, stopped to look around behind him at the neighborhood before he ultimately walked further into the neighborhood. Complainant stated that she found the incident odd and decided to image search a photo of the male that she had on video. Complainant stated that when she did this she was informed that there was a high chance the individual was “Elijah B”. Complainant stated that she then looked the subject up and found that this “Elijah” subject was the subject that had recently shot himself in the leg while fleeing from police after having forced entry into a home on Smyrna Road. With this being the response that she got from her search, Complainant stated that she wanted to have it passed to law enforcement in case something happened. At this time, this is a suspicious person only report as the subject did not commit any crimes within the Town limits. Disorderly Conduct: On 09-11-2026 at approximately 1935, Officer responded to Kelly Street in the Town of Elgin within the boundSeptember 24, 2026
aries of Kershaw County S.C., in reference to a male exposing himself to a neighbor. Upon arrival, Officer made contact with Complainant who stated he witnessed Subject urinating across the road from his address. Complainant stated he did not want Subject doing the activity due to his children possibly witnessing him. Complainant did not see Subject’s penis and did not report that he thought Subject was doing the activity for sexual gratification. Complainant said Subject walked down the street after he was finished. Officer found Subject sitting on the sidewalk at the BP gas station (2458 Main Street). Officer spoke with Subject and asked him what happened at his house and that a neighbor said he was urinating and exposed himself. Subject explained to me that he did not urinate and what Complainant saw was him adjusting his shorts that he was wearing. Due to conflicting statements, Officer did not pursue charging Subject. Body worn camera was activated upon arrival. Urinating in Public: Officer was dispatched to the location, Gyromania, which is within the Town limits of Elgin, in regards to an individual that had urinated in public. Upon arrival on scene, Officer spoke with the Complainants who are the owners of the property. Female Complainant stated that she and her husband had been out on the back side of the building having a cigarette when an older woman in a grey SUV pulled up and parked in one of the parking spots near the rear corner of the building. After she pulled into the spot, Female Complainant stated that the Suspect exited her vehicle and left the driver door open. Female Complainant stated that the Suspect then opened the rear driver side door before she pulled her pants down, partially sat down on the edge of the car before she began urinating in the parking lot. Female Complainant stated that she yelled at the Suspect, telling her “hey, you’re peeing in my parking lot” and the suspect acted as if she did not hear Female Complainant at all before she pulled her pants back up, closed her back door before she climbed into the driver seat and left. Prior to leaving the scene, Male Complainant was able to obtain a photo of the license plate that was displayed on the Suspect vehicle. They were also able to obtain a photo of the Suspect as she was in the process of getting ready to leave. Both Complainants stated that what they observed caused them to feel offended and disgusted, disturbing their day. After clearing from the incident location, Officer was able to look up the license plate that was provided on SC DMV online. The license plate came back on a Toyota Corolla Cross and is registered to Subject. Taking the customer number from the owner, Officer was able to obtain and driving record with a photo that appears to match that of the suspect in the photo that was provided by the Complainants. Investigation ongoing. Alarm/Unsecured Business: On 09/15/2026, Officer was dispatched to 2530 Main St. (Family Dollar) in the Town Limits of Elgin in reference to an activated alarm. Upon arrival Officer advised the front door of the business was unsecure. At that point, Lt. advised Officer to hold position at the unsecured door while Lt. was en route. Upon arrival, Lt. and Officer made entry to the store and began to clear the building. After a sweep of the store nothing appeared out of place or disturbed. The front doors were dead bolted, however the safety latch at the top of the doors was not secured. It appeared that someone attempted to open the doors and that is what set the alarm off. Kershaw County dispatch was able to make contact with a keyholder to secure the store. 7
KC First Responders Walk of Remembrance
First responders from across Kershaw County walked from Lugoff to Camden on Friday, Sept. 11, to mark the 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. The 5-mile Walk of Remembrance began at 9:03 a.m. at the Lugoff Fire Department, 892 Highway 1 South. Participants followed U.S. 1 into Camden, then continued along Broad, Rutledge and Lyttleton streets before finishing at the Camden Fire Department. Walkers represented the Camden Fire Department, Camden Police Department, Kershaw County Detention Center, Kershaw County Dispatch, Kershaw County EMS, Kershaw County Fire Services, Kershaw County Sheriff 's Office and Lugoff Fire Department. Residents were encouraged to line the route with American flags and patriotic displays in honor of the 2,977 people killed in the attacks and the first responders who answered the call that day. Photos courtesy Johnny Deal, BowTie Photography.
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September 24, 2026
Quiet Communication At Lugoff-Elgin Middle
Students in Keyes Wheeler’s sixth-grade Character Education classes put their communication skills to the test by working together to solve puzzles without speaking. Using only gestures, facial expressions, and body language, students practiced teamwork, patience, problem-solving, and the power of nonverbal communication.
Southern Gothic Festival Returns to Camden
The third annual Southern Gothic Festival returns Friday, October 9, and Saturday, October 10, with presentations from writers, storytellers, historians, podcasters, musicians, and participants in one of South Carolina’s most notorious criminal cases. Set among the historic streets and famously haunted places of South Carolina’s oldest inland city, the festival explores Southern Gothic in all its forms—from its literary roots and the legacy of Edgar Allan Poe to contemporary horror, folklore, race and identity, true crime, ghost stories, Appalachian music, and the paranormal. The festival begins Friday evening with Brandon Schexnayder, host of the acclaimed Southern Gothic podcast, exploring the history and legend of Agnes of Glasgow, Camden’s most famous ghost. The evening continues with a free outdoor performance by Valentine Wolfe and the Southern Gothic Opera Company and Historic Camden’s ticketed Southern Gothic Lantern Tour. Saturday features simultaneous programs at the Arts Center of Kershaw County, Revolutionary War Visitor Center, and Historic Camden, along with an independent author gathering, vendor market, food trucks and free shuttle service among festival locations. Literary guests include Karen White, Jason Mott, David Joy, Clay McLeod Chapman, Nathan Ballingrud, Andy Davidson, Lindy Ryan, Michael Wehunt, Tanya Pell, Chris Panatier, Yah Yah Scholfield, Julia September 24, 2026
Elliott, Robert Gwaltney, and Scott Gould. Conversations range from haunted houses and landscapes to contemporary horror, race and masculinity in Southern writing, and how a new generation of writers is redefining Southern Gothic. Other highlights include African American folklore and storytelling; cryptids and paranormal lore; a Victorian mourning jewelry exhibition; and a conversation about Edgar Allan Poe’s Southern roots and influence. A special true-crime program revisits the Susan Smith case with prosecutor Tommy Pope, former SLED Chief Robert Stewart, and Mark Brandenburg, clerk to the presiding judge, moderated by Camden Mayor Vincent Sheheen. Saturday evening concludes with The Mill Hands performing Appalachian murder ballads and dark bluegrass, the Arts Center’s original play SHOCK, and Historic Camden’s Haunts and Spirits nighttime tour. Most Southern Gothic Festival programs are free and require no reservations. Partner ghost tours and SHOCK are ticketed events. Free festival shuttles will operate Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. among the principal festival locations. For the complete festival schedule and event information, visit www. southerngothicfestival.com. 9
Blaney Elementary School News
Above, left: Blaney Elementary fourth grader McKenzie Alston examines a burr from an American Sweetgum tree as part of a science lesson about plants. Above right: Five BES students earned maximum scores on the SC READY assessment in Mathematics last spring, and they were recognized at a recent KCSD School Board meeting for this accomplishment! This statewide test measures students’ mastery of South Carolina Collegeand Career-Ready Standards in grades 3–8. Pictured from left to right are KCSD Board of Trustees Chairman Dr. James Smith, BES students Auhnor Sinkler, Cameron Ryan, Locke Kim, Brielle Etheridge, Kitai Ball, and KCSD Superintendent Dr. Harrison Goodwin.
College Colors Day at Stover Middle
Students and staff participate in College Colors day with a parade of college banners, the band playing fight songs and the cheerleaders leading the way! Students also got to take part in some tailgating outside with hot dogs and nachos. The entire event was sponsored by the AVID elective classes. 10
September 24, 2026
September 24, 2026
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County Confirms West Nile Virus in Camden Area
Kershaw County officials have received confirmation of a human case of West Nile Virus (WNV) within the Camden area. The exact time of state laboratory confirmation and the specific neighborhood location of the affected individual are not available at this time to protect patient privacy and due to ongoing surveillance efforts. County officials will continue to monitor the situation. Free Mosquito Dunks Available to Residents To assist residents in controlling mosquito populations on private property, Kershaw County is offering free mosquito dunks (biological larvicides used to treat standing water): • Pickup Location: Kershaw County Government Center Lobby • Free to Kershaw County residents while supplies last.
30thANNUAL
SATURDAY SEPT. 26 9 AM - 1 PM CAMDEN CITY ARENA 420 BROAD STREET
Schedule Johnny Deal for your family or event photos, and check out his site to access community event photos! 803.427.0883 | jdeal151@yahoo.com
Protect Yourself and Eliminate Mosquito Breeding Sites Residents are strongly urged to take preventive action to lower the risk of mosquito bites and control vector populations around their homes: • Eliminate Standing Water: Empty, drain, or cover containers that hold water at least once a week—including flowerpots, birdbaths, gutters, pet dishes, tarps, and old tires. • Use Insect Repellent: Apply EPA-registered insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus according to package instructions when outdoors. • Wear Protective Clothing: Wear light-colored, long-sleeved shirts and long pants during peak mosquito feeding times, particularly around dawn and dusk. • Secure Home Entry Points: Ensure window and door screens are tight-fitting and intact to prevent mosquitoes from entering structures. More Information For comprehensive updates on mosquito-borne illness surveillance, health guidance, and state vector tracking, visit the South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) website at dph.sc.gov.
Christmas Parade Registration Open Registration is open for the 2026 Kershaw County Christmas Parade, set for 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 12, in Camden. The parade will be held rain or shine. This year's theme is "The Sound of Christmas," and entries are encouraged to bring their favorite holiday songs to life. The parade will start at the corner of Laurens and Broad streets and end at the Camden City Arena. Lineup begins at 7:30 a.m., and all entries must be in place by 9:15 a.m. Laurens Street will close to all traffic at 9:30 a.m. Entries arriving after that time will be placed at the back of the parade. Lineup positions will be posted online one week before the parade. The registration fee is $45 per entry, or $55 for entries submitted after Nov. 24. Pageant winners pay $45 per winner, and car clubs pay $45 for every five cars. All fees are nonrefundable. To register, visit kershawcountychamber.org/christmas-parades.
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September 24, 2026
Celebrating 30 Years Resource Fair Set For Oct. 6 of Camden’s Fire Fest The S.C. Vocational Rehabilitation Department, in partnership with the Kershaw County
The Camden Fire Department will celebrate 30 years of fire prevention education and community partnership at the 30th annual Fire Fest on Saturday, Sept. 26. The free event will begin at 9 a.m. with a parade of modern and antique fire trucks traveling from Camden City Hall to the Camden City Arena, 420 Broad St. Activities at the arena will run until 1 p.m. Visitors can watch live firefighting demonstrations and competitions, a live burn and K-9 demonstrations. Antique fire trucks and other vehicles will be on display in the CruiseIn, and vendors, food trucks and games for all ages will round out the day. Fire Fest also serves as Camden's kickoff to Fire Prevention Week, observed nationally Oct. 4 to 10. This year's campaign, "Charge Into Fire Safety: Safe Charging Is a Superpower," focuses on safe charging habits and reducing the risk of fires involving lithium-ion batteries.
ACT Now Before The Rains Come Down
School District, will host the Fall into Awareness Community Resource Fair from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 6, at the Woolard Technology Center, 70 Innovation Way in Camden. More than 30 local organizations are expected to attend, giving families and residents a chance to learn about programs that support students, families and the community. Topics will include education and special services, job training and employment, family and youth programs, housing and financial support, and health and wellness. Attendees can also find information on counseling, mental health support, legal services, food and clothing assistance, and more. Food trucks will be on site, and lunch will be available for purchase. For more information, contact Amber Lydford at alydford@scvrd.net.
Post 195 Veterans ‘Man Church’ Information Fair Coming To Pine Grove Baptist American Legion Larry Jeffers Post 195 will host its first Veterans Information Fair from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 7, at 534 Wildwood Lane in Lugoff. The fair will give veterans and their families a chance to connect with local organizations and learn about benefits, services and support available to them. The post's service officer will also be on hand to meet with veterans. For more information, contact Janice Breland, Post 195 service officer, at janice.breland@gmail.com or 803-873-6497.
Pine Grove Baptist Church will host Man Church 2026 on Saturday, Sept. 26, from 10:47 a.m. to 1:07 p.m. at 836 Pine Grove Road in Lugoff. The event, open to men and boys, carries the theme "The Gospel of Grace" and the title "When Grace Becomes Your Mission." Howard Isom will serve as keynote speaker, with music by The Master's 3. Lunch will be served. Pre-register at PGBCSC.com.
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LEHS Student Athletes Crushing Fall Sports
Less than two months into the 2026–2027 school year, Lugoff-Elgin student-athletes are already making history. From the football field and swimming pool to the cross-country course and golf course, the Demons are delivering record-breaking performances and setting new standards for athletic excellence. The Lugoff-Elgin football team is off to a 4–0 start for the first time since 1999. The Demons opened the season with a victory over Chapin before hosting rival Camden. In a thrilling, hard-fought contest, Lugoff-Elgin defeated the Bulldogs for the first time since 2017. The Demons continued their winning streak at home against Nation Ford before taking their success on the road. Lugoff-Elgin defeated the South Aiken Thoroughbreds 21–7 to remain undefeated through its first four games. The team’s historic start has also included outstanding individual accomplishments. Defensive back Corey Murphy broke the school’s career interceptions record, which had stood since 1996. Murphy currently has 14 career interceptions—and the season is just getting started. Jace Coleman has also made history by receiving scholarship offers from two Southeastern Conference programs: the University of Georgia and the University of Tennessee. Coleman is the first Lugoff-Elgin football player to receive an SEC offer since 2018. The Lugoff-Elgin boys swim team has also been rewriting the school record books. Eighth grader Harlin Boyce broke the school record in
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the 500-yard freestyle, while junior Jacob Hodges established a new record in the 100-yard breaststroke. Sophomores Parker Watts and Reagan O’Hara, Hodges and Boyce also teamed up to break school records in both the 200-yard medley relay and the 200-yard freestyle relay. With several meets remaining, the swimmers hope to improve upon their new marks. They have also set their sights on breaking the final boys relay record in the 400-yard freestyle relay. Lugoff-Elgin Cross Country added another remarkable achievement on Saturday, Sept. 12, when junior Westin Halle competed in the Mike Moore Cross Country Classic. Halle finished sixth overall in a field of 270 runners, posting a time of 16:29.73. His performance broke Lugoff-Elgin’s previous cross-country record of 16:30.00, set by Thomas Odom in 1984. After standing for more than four decades, the record was broken by just 27 hundredths of a second. The Lugoff-Elgin girls golf team also joined the record-breaking celebration. Peyton Best recorded the lowest individual 18-hole score in program history, shooting a 79 to secure her place in the school record books. And this is only the beginning. Less than two months into the school year, Lugoff-Elgin student-athletes are already raising expectations, setting new standards and adding their names to the record books. Keep an eye on the Demons—Lugoff-Elgin Athletics is on fire!
September 24, 2026
First Responders Recognition Day
On game days in Columbia, the energy surrounding Williams-Brice Stadium relies heavily on a complex security operation behind the scenes. For years, your Kershaw County Sheriff ’s Office (KCSO) has joined forces with the University of South Carolina Division of Law Enforcement and Safety, sending deputies to assist with crowd management and stadium security during Gamecock football games and major university events. The multi-agency effort pairs KCSO deputies alongside officers from across the Midlands to meet the heavy staffing demands of major college athletic events. For Kershaw County residents, the regional security arrangement comes with a distinct advantage: zero cost to local taxpayers. All security details are voluntary and funded entirely by the University of South Carolina. Deputies complete the assignments on their off-duty time, providing officers with supplemental income opportunities while preserving standard departmental coverage and county pa-
September 24, 2026
trol budgets. Everybody wins. This gives USC extra hands at events and gives our deputies the opportunity to make additional money on their time off. Honoring First Responders To acknowledge the law enforcement agencies that support campus operations throughout the year, the USC Gamecocks host an annual First Responder Recognition Day. Assisting departments were formally honored on the field during the September 19 matchup against Mississippi State. Beyond game-day operations, local officials emphasize that the regular coordination helps build trust and familiarity among neighboring departments across the state. We will continue to build upon relationships with all our law enforcement partners throughout the state. It is a pleasure helping other agencies, and we know they will in turn be there for Kershaw County if we ever need their help.
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Our Family Caring For Your Family Since 1931 Camden Chapel 1112 Fair Street, Camden, SC 29020
803-432-3583
Lugoff-Elgin Chapel 1139 Highway 1 S, Lugoff, SC 29078
803-438-3419
www.kornegayfuneral.com
Attorney Dennis N. Cannon, Jr.
Attorney Arien Cannon
512 Rutledge Street, Camden SC | dncannonlaw.com